September is Rail Safety Month in California, so it’s the perfect time to remind everyone to be aware of their surroundings and practice safe behavior near trains and at all railroad crossings.

Trains are part of life in Orange County. With 34 cities and a population of more than 3 million, Orange County is the third largest county in California. Every day, trains contribute to our mobility and economic growth.

Whenever you're near railroad tracks, consider the size and power of trains. The average Metrolink train, for example, weighs 600 tons and can’t stop on a dime. In fact, it can take 1/3 of a mile or longer to stop a train depending on its speed.

According to Operation Lifesaver, every three hours a person or vehicle is struck by a train. Don’t tempt fate on railroad tracks. When you see tracks, think train!